Helicopter Express, a leading global provider of helicopter services, has announced the acquisition of the aerial firefighting operations business unit and aircraft of Erickson Incorporated, the manufacturer and operator of the S-64 Air Crane® helicopter. Erickson’s remaining MRO and OEM business units will continue as a standalone and separately capitalized entity. It will continue to serve as an independent manufacturer and service provider for the S-64 Air Crane® helicopter fleets around the world.

“The acquisition of Erickson’s firefighting operations and fleet furthers our growth plan into new aerial markets and makes us the premier heavy-lift operator globally”, said Scott Runyan, CEO of Helicopter Express.

“This transaction provides us with a sustainable plan to enhance our operations and provide better support to all of our customers”, said Barry Kohler, CEO of Erickson. “Erickson can now be fully focused on manufacturing, support and supply chain services for the global fleet”.

Helicopter Express acquired its first S-64 Air Crane® helicopter from Erickson in September 2022, and five more in August 2023.